Engagement for Peace

United Methodists for Constructive Peacemaking in Israel and Palestine (UMCPIP) is a group of United Methodists urging the denomination's General Conference to adopt an engaged stance that can help pave the way for peace

The United Methodist Church has a long heritage of commitment to a role of peacemaking and reconciliation.  The General Conference, meeting in Tampa, Florida April 24 - May 4, 2012, will discuss strategies to bring about change for the Palestinians in the Middle East.  In actions in the summer of 2011, the North Carolina and Virginia Annual Conferences prayed, wrestled with, and acted in a manner that we believe can play a constructive role. 

These two annual conferences adopted resolutions discouraging divestment and advocating positive investment in this region.  These actions by Virginia and North Carolina commit to a strategic response that supports current Palestinian efforts, an action that is in keeping with our Social Principles, and that targets economic justice. 

We believe that this action will help move the Palestinian people in the Middle East closer to economic independence.  We, as United Methodists for Constructive Peacemaking in Israel and Palestine, are asking delegates and United Methodists from around the world to join us in prayer, discernment, and support of positive targeted investment in Palestine.